Minis
Mini Copy Book

Each post in this section is a short précis (summary) of a passage in The Copy Book. All of them are in modern English. They are intended for students of English as a Foreign Language at Elementary Level.

Aesop of Samos

The Hare and the Tortoise

One had natural talent but no discipline, the other had discipline but no natural talent.

Length: 60 words

Extracts from Literature

In Good Company

Anne Elliot resents being expected to court the society of anyone simply because of social status.

Length: 102 words

Music and Musicians

‘Risoluto’

Despite setback after setback, Stanford was determined to hear his music played in public.

Length: 54 words

Magna Carta

The Signing of the Great Charter

King John promised his nobles respect, but he was not a man to regard his word as his bond.

Length: 117 words

Extracts from Literature

With the Compliments of Mr Collins

There is an art to making one’s compliments seem artless.

Length: 34 words

Extracts from Literature

‘Nothing clears up one’s ideas like explaining them’

Muddle-headed inventor Professor Cavor needs to think aloud, and for reasons of his own Mr Bedford is anxious to listen.

Length: 56 words